Tito Jackson, renowned for his role as a founding member of The Jackson 5, was not only celebrated for his musical talents but also for his unyielding commitment to seeking justice for his ex-wife, Delores Martes “Dee Dee” Jackson. Despite their separation, Tito’s dedication to Dee Dee’s memory remained unwavering, particularly after her tragic death in 1994. This blog explores Tito Jackson’s marriage to Dee Dee, the circumstances surrounding her death, and Tito’s relentless pursuit of justice.
Tito and Dee Dee Jackson: A Marriage Marked by Love and Tragedy
Tito Jackson and Dee Dee Jackson’s relationship began in their teenage years, culminating in marriage soon after high school. Tito was 18, and Dee Dee was 17 when they tied the knot in 1972.
Their union was celebrated by family and friends, and together, they welcomed three sons: Taj, Taryll, and TJ. Their early years together were marked by the excitement of Tito’s rising fame with The Jackson 5 and the joys of family life.
However, as with many relationships, Tito and Dee Dee’s marriage faced challenges. By 1989, the couple decided to part ways. Tito has openly discussed the reasons for their separation, attributing it to “differences.” Despite their divorce, Tito remained close to Dee Dee and continued to be involved in her life, a testament to the depth of their past relationship.
Dee Dee’s Untimely Death: A Mystery Unraveled
Dee Dee Jackson’s death on August 27, 1994, was shrouded in mystery and controversy. She drowned in the pool at her boyfriend Don Bohana’s home. Initial reports suggested the death was accidental, but an autopsy revealed evidence of blunt force trauma, leading to a suspicion that her death was not purely accidental.
Tito Jackson was deeply affected by Dee Dee’s passing, especially given the circumstances. In interviews, Tito expressed his disbelief and concern, questioning how Dee Dee, known for her fear of water, could have ended up in a pool.
He was particularly troubled by the bruises and injuries on her body, which he believed indicated foul play. Tito’s suspicions were further fueled by the fact that both Dee Dee and Bohana had been intoxicated that night.
Bohana, who was ultimately convicted of second-degree murder in 1998, maintained his innocence, claiming Dee Dee was comfortable around water and that the injuries were a result of his attempts to rescue her.
Despite his claims, Tito and his family remained convinced of his culpability, particularly after discovering potential motives linked to financial disputes.
Tito’s Legal Battle and Advocacy for Justice
Following Dee Dee’s death, Tito Jackson and his family embarked on a legal battle to seek justice. They filed a wrongful death suit against Don Bohana in 1995. Tito, along with his sons and mother, Katherine Jackson, worked closely with their family attorney, Brian Oxman, to keep the case in the public eye and demand a thorough investigation.
The legal fight was long and arduous. Tito and his sons also campaigned publicly to ensure that Dee Dee’s death did not fade into obscurity. Their efforts were partly successful;
Bohana was sentenced to 24 years in prison but was released on parole in December 2022. Throughout his incarceration, Bohana maintained his innocence, expressing regret for not being able to save Dee Dee but continuing to assert that he did not kill her.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Despite the tragic end to Dee Dee’s life, Tito Jackson’s commitment to her memory did not waver. He and his sons established the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation, which honors her legacy and supports charitable causes.
This foundation has become a vital part of Tito’s effort to ensure that Dee Dee’s memory lives on in a positive way.
Tito’s dedication to justice and his support for his family during this challenging time reflect the depth of his character and the complexity of his relationship with Dee Dee. His actions not only highlighted his personal commitment but also brought attention to issues of domestic violence and justice.
Conclusion
Tito Jackson’s marriage to Dee Dee Jackson and his subsequent fight for justice after her death offer a poignant narrative of love, loss, and perseverance. Despite their separation, Tito’s unwavering dedication to seeking justice for Dee Dee underscores the enduring bonds of family and the quest for truth.
Tito’s life and actions serve as a reminder of the complexities surrounding relationships and the often-hidden struggles that can impact even the most public figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Was Tito Jackson married?
Yes, Tito Jackson was married to Delores Martes “Dee Dee” Jackson. They married in 1972 and had three sons together. The couple divorced in 1989 but remained connected until Dee Dee’s death in 1994.
2. What happened to Dee Dee Jackson?
Dee Dee Jackson drowned in a pool at her boyfriend Don Bohana’s home in August 1994. An autopsy revealed evidence of blunt force trauma, suggesting that her death was not accidental. Bohana was convicted of second-degree murder in 1998.
3. How did Tito Jackson respond to Dee Dee’s death?
Tito Jackson was deeply affected by Dee Dee’s death. He expressed disbelief and concern about the circumstances surrounding her drowning and was particularly troubled by the injuries found on her body. Tito, along with his family, pursued legal action against Bohana and campaigned for a thorough investigation.
4. What was the outcome of the legal battle regarding Dee Dee’s death?
Tito Jackson and his family filed a wrongful death suit against Don Bohana, who was convicted of second-degree murder in 1998. Bohana served 24 years in prison before being released on parole in December 2022. Tito and his family continued to seek justice and advocate for Dee Dee’s memory throughout this period.
5. What is the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation?
The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation was established by Tito Jackson and his sons to honor Dee Dee’s memory and support charitable causes. The foundation aims to continue her legacy and contribute positively to the community, reflecting Tito’s commitment to keeping her memory alive.